BVI employment law favors citizens (“Belongers”) to be awarded local jobs, as long as they meet the same qualifications as the foreigner being considered. Before finalizing a job offer to you, your prospective employer is required to advertise the position in a BVI newspaper for 2 consecutive weeks.

If a Belonger who qualifies for the position does not come forward, the next step for you is to secure a work permit. Approvals vary but typically take 2-3 months. Application forms are usually prepared by the prospective employer but can also be acquired through the Labour Department in Road Town.

A copy of the employment offer must accompany the applicant as well a birth certificate, passport, medical examination documents, police records if applicable, and the location where the prospective employee plans to reside.